NTT, THENUSANTARAPOST.COM – Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara, erupted again on Friday, November 8, 2024, in the afternoon. The first eruption occurred at 13:55 WITA, with an eruption column rising 4,000 meters above the summit. One minute later, a second eruption occurred with an ash column observed reaching 10 kilometers above the summit, raising concerns about its broader impact.
Abdul Muhari, Ph.D., Head of the BNPB Data, Information, and Communication Center, stated that the eruption had caused thick ash and sand rain in several areas around the slopes of Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano. Additionally, the eruption generated hot clouds that spread in all directions, worsening conditions in the surrounding area.
In response to the increased potential danger, the government has expanded the danger zone. The safe zone, which was previously limited to a 7-kilometer radius from the summit, has now been extended to 8 kilometers toward the southwest and northwest. “The access road connecting East Flores and Sikka districts has been tightened, and military and police personnel are conducting sweeps to ensure the safety of at-risk residents,” said Abdul Muhari.
The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has urged residents who are still sheltering on their own to head to centralized evacuation posts to facilitate coordination and the fulfillment of basic needs. The centralized evacuation points are located in Wulanggitang and Larantuka subdistricts in East Flores, as well as in Maumere city in Sikka.
“The purpose of centralizing the refugees is to facilitate the distribution of aid, including food, clothing, and masks. At the evacuation points, the situation remains under control,” explained Muhari.
Although several villages around Lewotobi Laki-Laki, such as Konga Village, located 10 kilometers from the summit, were not directly affected by this eruption, the emergency response team continues to closely monitor the situation. Basic needs at the evacuation centers, such as clothing, food, and masks, have also been met.
The government and BNPB continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and follow the instructions of local authorities for everyone’s safety. Meanwhile, the disaster management teams will continue monitoring and coordinating mitigation efforts to reduce the further risk from Lewotobi Laki-Laki Volcano’s volcanic activity (Marwan)
